How do you write a reflective journal?

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Quick Answer

To write a reflective journal, write about an experience, how it is interpreted and what can be done in the future to make similar experiences more enjoyable. Typically, reflective journals focus on events and activities that are important to the writer. Writing a reflective journal can be completed over the course of several weeks or months.

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Choose a specific experience, and write about what happened in the journal. Include who participated in the experience and what they did.

Interpret the experience

After writing a summary of what happened, write down a personal interpretation of the events. For instance, one may include opinions about the most important aspects of the experience, how the experience was unique or a simple explanation of the events.

Determine the outcome of the experience

One of the main goals of reflective writing is to plan future actions or behaviors based on past experiences. Write down what has been learned from the experience, or write down a plan for improving the outcome of similar experiences in the future. For instance, if a student fails a test, a reflective journal entry can include a plan to study more effectively in the future.